30 Other Ways to Say ‘Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly’ (With Examples)

Finding the right words to organize your thoughts is important, whether you are writing an email, giving a presentation, or simply explaining something to a friend. Instead of repeating “firstly, secondly, thirdly,” you can choose warmer, clearer, and more natural alternatives. These options make your message easier to follow and help you sound more engaging, personal, and professional at the same time.

This guide explores 30 better alternatives with scenarios, examples, tone, and explanations so you can communicate with more clarity and confidence.

What Does “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly” Mean?

The phrase “firstly, secondly, thirdly” is used to list points in order. It’s common in academic, professional, and structured writing. However, in daily conversations or friendly messages, it can feel too formal or mechanical.

Is It Professional/Polite to Say “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly”?

Yes, it is both professional and polite. It shows clear structure and works well in reports, essays, and official writing. But in casual conversation or warm emails, it may sound a little rigid, which is why many people prefer friendlier alternatives.

Pros or Cons

Pros:

Keeps writing structured
Easy for the reader to follow
Professional in formal contexts

Cons:

Can sound robotic
May feel old-fashioned in speech
Overuse reduces warmth in tone

Synonyms For “Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly”

To begin with
First of all
The first point is
To start with
As a first step
To open with
As a starting point
In the first place
Let’s start with
To kick things off
Moving on
Following that
Afterward
Next up
Coming next
Then
Afterwards
Later on
Secondly
The second point is
Following on
In addition
Another point is
A further point
Moreover
On top of that
Thirdly
The third point is
Lastly
Finally

1. To Begin With

Scenario: Writing an email to explain steps clearly.

Example 1: To begin with, we need to gather all the documents.
Example 2: To begin with, I’d like to thank you for your efforts.
Example 3: To begin with, let’s discuss the main challenge.

Tone: Friendly yet professional.

Explanation: A natural opener that works well in emails, meetings, and reports. It feels less formal than “firstly” but still organized and polite.

2. First of All

Scenario: Talking with a colleague.

Example 1: First of all, congratulations on your success!
Example 2: First of all, we need to confirm the budget.
Example 3: First of all, let me explain why this matters.

Tone: Warm and conversational.

Explanation: A common everyday phrase that makes your message feel natural and personal, perfect for both formal and casual settings.

3. The First Point Is

Scenario: Sharing structured thoughts in a meeting.

Example 1: The first point is we must review last week’s progress.
Example 2: The first point is customer feedback has improved.
Example 3: The first point is we need to hire more staff.

Tone: Professional and clear.

Explanation: This phrase directly highlights your main idea and ensures your audience knows where the discussion begins.

4. To Start With

Scenario: Explaining steps in an email.

Example 1: To start with, let’s finalize the design draft.
Example 2: To start with, I want to clarify our main priorities.
Example 3: To start with, we need to update the project timeline.

Tone: Conversational and approachable.

Explanation: It’s simple and easy to understand, making your message feel lighter than the more formal “firstly.”

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5. As a First Step

Scenario: Giving someone instructions.

Example 1: As a first step, install the required software.
Example 2: As a first step, we need to prepare the report outline.
Example 3: As a first step, review the safety guidelines.

Tone: Instructional and practical.

Explanation: This phrase works best when describing a sequence of actions that need to be completed in order.

6. To Open With

Scenario: Starting a presentation.

Example 1: To open with, I want to thank everyone for being here today.
Example 2: To open with, let’s review last quarter’s results.
Example 3: To open with, I’ll share the main goals of this meeting.

Tone: Formal but welcoming.

Explanation: A good choice when you want to start a speech or presentation smoothly, setting a professional yet warm tone.

7. As a Starting Point

Scenario: Giving structured guidance.

Example 1: As a starting point, we should analyze last year’s data.
Example 2: As a starting point, please introduce yourself to the group.
Example 3: As a starting point, let’s define the key challenges.

Tone: Neutral and practical.

Explanation: This phrase helps you frame the first idea before moving on to others, making it suitable for both academic and workplace communication.

8. In the First Place

Scenario: Clarifying reasoning in a discussion.

Example 1: In the first place, we didn’t agree to these terms.
Example 2: In the first place, the issue should have been addressed earlier.
Example 3: In the first place, the plan lacked proper funding.

Tone: Firm and logical.

Explanation: Often used when justifying or explaining something, this phrase emphasizes the primary reason behind an argument or decision.

9. Let’s Start With

Scenario: Conversational introduction.

Example 1: Let’s start with the good news from last week.
Example 2: Let’s start with the most urgent tasks today.
Example 3: Let’s start with your questions before we continue.

Tone: Friendly and collaborative.

Explanation: Perfect for team discussions or casual communication, as it invites others to follow along naturally.

10. To Kick Things Off

Scenario: Energetic team meeting.

Example 1: To kick things off, let’s share some quick updates.
Example 2: To kick things off, I’d like to welcome our new member.
Example 3: To kick things off, here’s an overview of today’s agenda.

Tone: Energetic and engaging.

Explanation: This phrase adds enthusiasm and is often used to set a positive tone at the beginning of a meeting, speech, or event.

11. Moving On

Scenario: Transitioning between points in a discussion.

Example 1: Moving on, let’s talk about the budget updates.
Example 2: Moving on, I’d like to address the feedback we received.
Example 3: Moving on, the next issue is our hiring plan.

Tone: Smooth and professional.

Explanation: Works well when you want to shift the conversation naturally from one point to another.

12. Following That

Scenario: Explaining a step-by-step process.

Example 1: Following that, we need to conduct a survey.
Example 2: Following that, you should finalize the report.
Example 3: Following that, we’ll move to the implementation stage.

Tone: Sequential and clear.

Explanation: Helps maintain logical order, making it easy for others to track your flow of thoughts.

13. Afterward

Scenario: Narrating an event or giving directions.

Example 1: Afterward, we’ll review the outcomes together.
Example 2: Afterward, she presented her findings to the team.
Example 3: Afterward, please submit your notes online.

Tone: Neutral and explanatory.

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Explanation: A good choice when explaining events in chronological order.

14. Next Up

Scenario: Running through agenda points.

Example 1: Next up, we have a presentation by Sarah.
Example 2: Next up, let’s discuss the client’s requirements.
Example 3: Next up, we’ll finalize the project timeline.

Tone: Lively and engaging.

Explanation: Creates a sense of anticipation, often used in presentations, meetings, or events.

15. Coming Next

Scenario: Introducing upcoming tasks.

Example 1: Coming next, we’ll look at the financial summary.
Example 2: Coming next, the training module will begin.
Example 3: Coming next, we’ll review the updated guidelines.

Tone: Professional yet casual.

Explanation: A good way to show progression, especially when presenting step-by-step information.

16. Then

Scenario: Explaining a sequence.

Example 1: First, wash the tools. Then, dry them completely.
Example 2: She welcomed everyone. Then, she shared the agenda.
Example 3: We’ll review the proposal, then decide on the next steps.

Tone: Simple and direct.

Explanation: One of the most common and natural connectors, useful in both writing and speech.

17. Afterwards

Scenario: Telling a story.

Example 1: We met for lunch, and afterwards, we went shopping.
Example 2: The meeting ended, and afterwards, everyone shared feedback.
Example 3: He explained the problem, and afterwards, we planned solutions.

Tone: Narrative and smooth.

Explanation: A slightly softer variation of “afterward”, often used in storytelling.

18. Later On

Scenario: Talking about plans.

Example 1: Later on, we’ll discuss the new features.
Example 2: Later on, I’ll share the complete report.
Example 3: Later on, we’ll review the customer survey.

Tone: Relaxed and informal.

Explanation: Works well in casual conversations or planning discussions, not very formal.

19. Secondly

Scenario: Listing structured arguments.

Example 1: Secondly, we must consider the timeline.
Example 2: Secondly, let’s address the client’s feedback.
Example 3: Secondly, our costs need to be reviewed.

Tone: Formal and structured.

Explanation: Still widely used in academic and professional contexts, though it may feel too rigid for casual communication.

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20. The Second Point Is

Scenario: Continuing a logical discussion.

Example 1: The second point is we must improve communication.
Example 2: The second point is customer satisfaction has declined.
Example 3: The second point is we should reduce costs.

Tone: Clear and professional.

Explanation: Makes your message easy to follow by highlighting the second step or reason directly.

21. Following On

Scenario: Explaining connected ideas.

Example 1: Following on, I’d like to share the new results.
Example 2: Following on, the next issue is staff training.
Example 3: Following on, let’s review the long-term plan.

Tone: Smooth and formal.

Explanation: Ideal for creating a flow between ideas in professional or academic writing.

22. In Addition

Scenario: Adding information in a report.

Example 1: In addition, we must improve our response time.
Example 2: In addition, the costs are higher than expected.
Example 3: In addition, the team completed training last week.

Tone: Formal and informative.

Explanation: Emphasizes extra information without sounding repetitive. Common in business writing.

23. Another Point Is

Scenario: Explaining ideas in a meeting.

Example 1: Another point is we need to expand our marketing reach.
Example 2: Another point is the team lacks resources.
Example 3: Another point is the timeline may be too short.

Tone: Neutral and flexible.

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Explanation: Keeps the discussion organized while sounding less formal than “secondly.”

24. A Further Point

Scenario: Writing an essay.

Example 1: A further point is the research was limited.
Example 2: A further point is the data shows strong growth.
Example 3: A further point is that training is essential.

Tone: Formal and academic.

Explanation: Often used in essays or research papers to add supporting evidence.

25. Moreover

Scenario: Persuasive writing.

Example 1: Moreover, the results confirm our strategy works.
Example 2: Moreover, staff satisfaction has improved significantly.
Example 3: Moreover, this method saves both time and money.

Tone: Persuasive and formal.

Explanation: Used to strengthen an argument by adding powerful supporting information.

26. On Top of That

Scenario: Conversational emphasis.

Example 1: On top of that, the team finished early.
Example 2: On top of that, we stayed within budget.
Example 3: On top of that, client satisfaction went up.

Tone: Casual and friendly.

Explanation: Great for informal speech or writing, adds a sense of extra emphasis in a lively way.

27. Thirdly

Scenario: Formal listing.

Example 1: Thirdly, we must address quality issues.
Example 2: Thirdly, we need to consider hiring new staff.
Example 3: Thirdly, let’s review the marketing campaign.

Tone: Formal and structured.

Explanation: Standard but may sound outdated in casual conversations. Still useful in professional or academic settings.

28. The Third Point Is

Scenario: Explaining three reasons.

Example 1: The third point is we need better time management.
Example 2: The third point is customer complaints are rising.
Example 3: The third point is we should expand the budget.

Tone: Direct and professional.

Explanation: Keeps your message very clear, especially when giving organized presentations.

29. Lastly

Scenario: Wrapping up a list.

Example 1: Lastly, I’d like to thank everyone for their hard work.
Example 2: Lastly, let’s confirm the next meeting date.
Example 3: Lastly, the project’s success depends on teamwork.

Tone: Concluding and respectful.

Explanation: A very common and polite way to close a structured list, works in both spoken and written English.

30. Finally

Scenario: Ending a presentation.

Example 1: Finally, we can celebrate the project’s success.
Example 2: Finally, I’d like to share our future goals.
Example 3: Finally, let’s answer any questions you have.

Tone: Formal yet warm.

Explanation: A classic concluding phrase, perfect for bringing your message to a strong finish.

Conclusion

Finding the right words makes a big difference in how people understand you. Instead of saying “firstly, secondly, thirdly,” you can use many friendly and clear alternatives that sound more natural. These phrases help you stay organized while also keeping your tone warm, professional, and easy to follow.

Emma Brooke

Emma Brooke is a passionate advocate for effective communication and language mastery. As a dedicated professional in the field of grammar and writing, Emma brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to those seeking to improve their linguistic skills. With a focus on clarity, precision, and style, Emma Brooke is committed to helping individuals refine their language use to communicate confidently and effectively.